In a decisive move to safeguard places of worship and promote public safety, Mississauga City Council has voted unanimously to draft a bylaw banning protests within 100 metres of temples, mosques, churches, and other religious institutions. This decision comes in response to a series of recent violent and disruptive demonstrations outside Peel Region places of worship.
The motion, introduced by Ward 7 Councillor Dipika Damerla and seconded by Ward 5 Councillor Natalie Hart, directs city staff to prepare a bylaw that prohibits protests near places of worship while balancing the fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
“Sanctuaries of peace should remain free from intimidation and disruption,” said Councillor Damerla during the council meeting. “Unfortunately, the line has been crossed repeatedly, and it is our duty to protect these spaces where people find solace and peace.”
The proposed bylaw aims to address escalating tensions that have led to violence during demonstrations, including recent incidents near Hindu and Sikh temples. Damerla expressed her hope that the bylaw will be presented to council for approval by early December.
Representatives of the Hindu community and Peel Regional Police voiced strong support for the proposed measure:
- Kushagr Sharma, speaking on behalf of the Hindu Heritage Centre, noted that recent protests have created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, preventing community members from accessing their places of worship.
- Pandit Sharma from the Mississauga Ram Mandir also advocated for the motion, emphasizing the need for peaceful religious practices.
- Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah highlighted the public safety risks posed by recent demonstrations, some of which devolved into violence. “While we respect the right to peaceful assembly and expression, it is important to balance this with the safety and freedom of community members to access and practice their religion without fear,” he said in a statement.
The bylaw is designed to protect freedom of religion while setting reasonable limits on protests in areas where they may cause harm or disruption. While the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, Mississauga’s approach seeks to ensure that religious institutions remain safe and welcoming spaces for worshippers.
Mississauga’s initiative follows a similar effort in Brampton, where city council has advanced a bylaw banning protests within 100 metres of places of worship. Brampton’s legislation, which addresses “nuisance” demonstrations, is expected to be ratified on November 20, 2024, and could take effect the following day.
Mississauga City Council has tasked staff with preparing detailed provisions of the bylaw, which will return for council review in the coming weeks.